Category: May2018

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Happy Mother’s Day

Happy Mother’s Day to each of you wonderful ladies who are reading this.

As mothers, none of us are perfect. We haven’t done it right all the time but our hearts are for our children and we only want the best for them. Today we can thank God for His mercy and grace that He has extended to us and we can be an example in extending that same mercy and grace to our children.

The greatest gift we can give our children is a godly heritage, standing strong for God even when our children think we are fanatical and/or old-fashioned. God has entrusted us with our children’s lives; we are responsible to teach them to love and respect God and His word. If our children are small or grown, live within our home or are separated by miles,  we must depend upon God’s word to guide us and them. God will be faithful.

“Your word is like a lamp that guides my steps, a light that shows the path I should take. 106 Your laws are good and fair. I have promised to obey them, and I will keep my promise… 111 The rules you have given me to follow will be mine forever. They give me great joy. 112 More than anything I want to obey your laws always, until the end of my life.” Psalm 119:105-112

At times, this road called life can be a dark path. One where the next step may seem uncertain but when we seek and follow the counsel of God’s word it becomes like a flashlight shining brightly on our path, illuminating the way we should go. We also have God’s promise that He will be our guide.

“But now you will again see the Lord, your teacher, and he will guide you. 21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, you will hear a voice saying, “This is the road! Now follow it.” Isaiah 30:20-21

King David was a man of his word; he had promised to obey God’s commands and he vowed that he would continue to keep that promise. People depended on him the way he depended on God. As the king of Israel, David’s actions affected the entire nation. He would lead the country to battle their enemies and he would lead them in peace. He needed to know that he was hearing God’s voice and being faithful to follow His word.

We might not rule countries and lead nations but we do have a sphere of influence and we need to be following God’s word. It is essential for us and for those who follow us, our children and grandchildren.

Each day we should pray for our children and grandchildren. We don’t know what they will face, dangers and temptations, but we can talk to the Lord about them. We can trust Him to keep them safe and well, making right decisions and judgements.

God’s word will provide direction for us. We need to determine that we will follow God’s word at all costs. Live committed to what He says – make it our primary purpose and goal.

“And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 Keep these words in your heart that I am telling you today. 7 Do your best to teach them to your children. Talk about them when you sit in your house and when you walk on the road and when you lie down and when you get up.” Deuteronomy 6:5-7 NLV

 

 

 

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Stop and Smell the Flowers – Carefully

Yesterday I was out in the yard, the prickly pear are filled with blooms and I stopped to take a picture for a friend.

If you look closely in the top bloom you will see a honey bee bathing himself in pollen. It was fascinating to watch. He would dive in and roll around covering himself in yellow pollen. I tried to get a video of it but he flew away.

Who taught him to do that? Who gives the hummingbirds their command to fly south for the winter and to return in the Spring? Who tells the horses and cattle in the fields to grow thick heavy coats in the winter as protection from the cold? How do sea turtles know to come to the sandy beaches to lay their eggs? And who instructs the salmon to return to their spawning grounds?

These are not creatures with great intelligence. However, they were created with the instinct for preservation of life. Who gave them that instinct? The Creator of all things!

“God said, “I command the ocean to be full of living creatures, and I command birds to fly above the earth.” 21 So God made the giant sea monsters and all the living creatures that swim in the ocean. He also made every kind of bird. God looked at what he had done, and it was good.” Genesis 1:20-21 CEV

Since God created it all and gave such great forethought to every detail of His creation isn’t it safe to assume that He is equally as concerned with the details of our lives?

““But ask the wild animals, and they will teach you. Ask the birds of the heavens, and let them tell you. 8 Or speak to the earth, and let it teach you. Let the fish of the sea make it known to you. 9 Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? 10 In His hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all men.” Job 12:7-10 NLV

Jesus told us that we should be free from worry about our daily necessities by comparing the way God provides for the flowers and birds to us. I know I use that analogy frequently but it’s because I am still so amazed by His love and provision.

“I tell you this: Do not worry about your life. Do not worry about what you are going to eat and drink. Do not worry about what you are going to wear. Is not life more important than food? Is not the body more important than clothes? 26 Look at the birds in the sky. They do not plant seeds. They do not gather grain. They do not put grain into a building to keep. Yet your Father in heaven feeds them! Are you not more important than the birds? 27 Which of you can make himself a little taller by worrying? 28 Why should you worry about clothes? Think how the flowers grow. They do not work or make cloth. 29 But I tell you that Solomon in all his greatness was not dressed as well as one of these flowers. 30 God clothes the grass of the field. It lives today and is burned in the stove tomorrow. How much more will He give you clothes? You have so little faith! 31 Do not worry. Do not keep saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or, ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘What will we wear?’ 32 The people who do not know God are looking for all these things. Your Father in heaven knows you need all these things.” Matthew 6:25-32 NLV

Each time I see an example of God’s goodness in nature like the honey bee yesterday or the hummingbirds that come daily to my feeders it makes me stop and say thank you. God didn’t have to provide for us. He didn’t have to shower us with love and affection but He chose to. Independent of me efforts or lack thereof, He chose to love me! Amazing!!

“When I look up and think about Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in their place, 4 what is man, that You think of him, the son of man that You care for him? 5 You made him a little less than the angels and gave him a crown of greatness and honor. 6 You made him to rule over the works of Your hands. You put all things under his feet: 7 All sheep and cattle, all the wild animals, 8 the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, and all that pass through the sea. 9 O Lord, our Lord, how great is Your name in all the earth!” Psalm 8:3-9 NLV

If you’re feeling down today, thinking that no one notices or really cares about the struggles you’re facing, go find a flower. Look at its intricacies and remind yourself that God who created these flowers is your loving heavenly Father and He cares, He deeply cares about you.

Elvis Presley sang a song years ago and the lyrics go like this:

Who made the mountains, who made the trees
Who made the rivers flow to the sea
And who sends the rain when the earth is dry
Somebody bigger than you and I

Who made the flowers to bloom in the spring
Who made the song for the robins to sing
And who hung the moon in the starry sky
Somebody bigger than you and I

He lights the way when the road is long
He keeps you company
And with His love to guide you
He walks beside you
Just like He walks with me

When I am weary, filled with despair
Who gives me courage to go on from there
And who gives me faith that will never die
Somebody bigger than you and I
Bigger than you and I

Let your heart be filled with song as you stop and smell the flowers!

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Wisdom From the Farm Yard

I overheard this conversation a while back when I was visiting a farm yard.

The farm animals were trying to decide how they could honor Farmer Brown. They had seen how hard he worked each day. Rising early in the morning and still working long after the sun had set. He would make sure that all their needs were met. He brought them grain and fresh hay and provided them with shelter. He would be out to the fields to cut the alfalfa and harvest the grain.

What could they do for him?

The chicken said that they could help the farmer by making him a healthy, hearty breakfast. That’s what they would do to show their appreciation!

“We can bring him eggs, bacon and buttermilk. I know he would like that.”

The cow agreed. Sounded like a good plan to her. Starting Farmer Brown with a good breakfast would give him the strength he needed for the day.

Pig stood quiet for a while. He loved Farmer Brown and he wanted to show his appreciation as much as cow and chicken did but he was having mixed feelings over this breakfast plan. Finally, he spoke.

“I am all for doing something nice for Farmer Brown. He is a kind man. However, this breakfast plan causes me some distress. You see, the things that you are contributing for the breakfast only require your involvement but for me, it requires a complete commitment.”

I see our relationship with the Lord in a similar fashion. There are some who like to be involved. They want God there when they need him so they do things to be involved. Maybe they do good for the neighbors or help with the church’s rummage sale or food drive. They find all sorts of ways to “act” like they are committed but they are only involved.

Then there are those who love the Lord and aren’t afraid of commitment. They make it their life’s ambition to love and serve the Lord. It’s their goal to do the things that honor and please Him. Loving as He loves, giving up things that would bring dishonor, daily committing their actions to him. Yes, it’s a fulltime commitment.

Jesus told the story of a rich young ruler who came to him, wanting to be one of his disciples.

“A man came to Jesus and asked, “Good Teacher, what good work must I do to have life that lasts forever?” 17 Jesus said to him, “Why are you asking Me about what is good? There is only One Who is good. If you want to have life that lasts forever, you must obey the Laws.” 18 The man said to Him, “What kind of laws?” Jesus said, “You must not kill another person. You must not be guilty of sex sins. You must not steal. You must not lie. 19 Show respect to your father and your mother. And love your neighbor as you love yourself.” 20 The young man said to Jesus, “I have obeyed all these Laws. What more should I do?” 21 Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell everything you have and give the money to poor people. Then you will have riches in heaven. Come and follow Me.” 22 When the young man heard these words, he went away sad for he had many riches.” Matthew 19:15-22 NLV

This young man had been involved with the things of God. He knew the commandments and had kept them. So I’m sure he felt confident in talking with Jesus. But Jesus saw his heart. There was only thing that was blocking his commitment. There was something he wasn’t willing to give up to follow Jesus. You see, the one commandment that he was willing to keep was the first. The one that said “have no other gods before me”.

Jesus wasn’t against this man having wealth. In fact, many of the people that Jesus ministered too were wealthy people. What Jesus saw is that this man was held captive by his money. His riches had become his god.

For some their god is their reputation while to others it’s their homes, their possessions. Still others invest more time and effort into their education than they do in knowing the Lord and following after him. And for some worry over personal needs has become their god.

“Why worry about clothes? Look how the wild flowers grow. They don’t work hard to make their clothes. 29 But I tell you that Solomon with all his wealthwasn’t as well clothed as one of them. 30 God gives such beauty to everything that grows in the fields, even though it is here today and thrown into a fire tomorrow. He will surely do even more for you! Why do you have such little faith?

31 Don’t worry and ask yourselves, “Will we have anything to eat? Will we have anything to drink? Will we have any clothes to wear?” 32 Only people who don’t know God are always worrying about such things. Your Father in heaven knows that you need all of these. 33 But more than anything else, put God’s work first and do what he wants. Then the other things will be yours as well.” Matthew 6:28-33 CEV

I frequently have to evaluate where I am with the Lord. Am I like the pig, who would give up his life for the farmer, fully committed to honoring the Lord? Or am I like the cow and the chicken, who didn’t mind helping because it required no self-sacrifice?

Lord, today I desire to be a pig in my walk with you. Please show me where I am “chicken” so that I follow you completely and without reservation.

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The Lion and The Chihuahua

This morning I was reflecting on our move to Arizona. It was 4 years ago this month.  I know I have shared some of this story with you before but I wanted to share with you the Lion and the Chihuahua struggles that we faced in bringing us to this place.

Roaring lion or barking Chihuahua! The struggles we face on a daily basis can be one or the other.  Oh my goodness, one brings fear and the other is just an annoyance that doesn’t go away.

Before I go any further let me interject here, I have a friend that loves her little Chihuahuas and I am in no way casting dispersions on them but just relaying a lesson the Lord taught me years ago and apparently one I needed to be reminded of this morning.

“6 Be humble in the presence of God’s mighty power, and he will honor you when the time comes. 7 God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him. 8 Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone to attack.” I Peter 5:6-8 CEV

We were in the process of packing up the house in Montana and getting ready to make our move home, back to Arizona. We were so excited and each chore was met with joy and anticipation. However, there was one “care” that I found myself throwing over on the Lord continually. We were moving ourselves with a U-Haul big truck and our Excursion was too large to tow so we needed a third driver.

The logistics were complicated and just when we thought we had them figured out they changed! That’s the Chihuahua I’m talking about. The little details kept changing.

For the past 6 years we had been anticipating this move; that long wait was our roaring lion. The enemy roaring at us, telling us it was never going to happen, telling us we had missed God and it wasn’t His will that we move. Those words roared in our ears but we took our stand on God’s word and stood, stood firm, stood steadfast and immovable. Now we were moving!

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15:57-58 NKJV

Lion conquered but now for the Chihuahua.

Years ago we were holding a Camp Meeting at a ranch in Northern Arizona. When we arrived at the ranch, our friends weren’t there and we were greeted by their little dog that lived under the porch. He came out making the most ferocious bark that he could muster. As I took a step toward him, he took off and went back under the porch.

This was a scene that repeated itself a number of times over the next 20 minutes. Finally, frustrated I scolded him harshly and told him to hush. He ran back and stayed under the porch until his owners came.

In that situation, I heard the Holy Spirit speak to my heart. He said, you know that little dog is a good example of the devil. He’ll yep and bark and annoy but he can’t win. The victory has been given to you through Christ Jesus! You need to stomp your foot and tell him to get back “to where he came from”. Don’t let him distract you from what you were called to do.

You see the verse doesn’t say the enemy IS a roaring lion. It says he’s LIKE a roaring lion. Don’t be scared off by the growl.

So that morning of our moving preparation  we stomped our foot and sent the adversary running. God knew every detail and step that we needed to take with this move and weren’t  going to be distracted, worried or frustrated by the enemy’s yapping!

“Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully. 8 Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour.” I Peter 5:7-8 AMP

You may have much bigger problems and struggles than we did with our move. Yours may be health issues, financial issues or a marriage that’s falling apart. The principles of God’s word work for all of us. So read on and see the promise of victory.

“But you must resist the devil and stay strong in your faith. You know that all over the world the Lord’s followers are suffering just as you are. 10 But God shows undeserved kindness to everyone. That’s why he appointed Christ Jesus to choose you to share in his eternal glory. You will suffer for a while, but God will make you complete, steady, strong, and firm. 11 God will be in control forever! Amen.” I Peter 5:9-11 CEV

Let me give you the ending our of story. Our son and his girlfriend were able to meet us in Salt Lake and drive our Excursion the rest of the trip. They were also able to stay with us for a few days in Arizona and help unload the moving van. What a blessing!

Victory – Grace filled victory!

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My Strong Place

This morning I have been focusing my thoughts on trust. Trusting the Lord is a progressive action or at least I found that to be my experience.

I’ve been reviewing the life of King David from the time he was a shepherd for his father to his life as King of Israel. He took trusting steps all along the way.

He mentions two occasions where he knew God was with him while taking care of the sheep.

“But David said to Saul, “There were times when I was taking care of my father’s sheep that wild animals came to take some sheep from the flock. Once there was a lion and another time, a bear. 35 I chased that wild animal, attacked it, and took the sheep from its mouth. The wild animal jumped on me, but I caught it by the fur under its mouth. And I hit it and killed it.” I Samuel 17:34-35 ERV

And because of these two trusting steps, he knew that he could face Goliath and that God would give him the victory.

“36 I killed both a lion and a bear like that! And I will kill that foreigner, Goliath, just like them. Goliath will die because he made fun of the army of the living God. 37 The Lord saved me from the lion and the bear. He will also save me from this Philistine.”

Saul said to David, “Go and may the Lord be with you.”  I Samuel 17:26-27 ERV

That was just the start of it. The same man, King Saul, who sent David out to face Goliath, became jealous of him and soon started hunting him. Each time Saul got close the Lord protected David.

“He said, “The Lord is my rock, my strong place, and the One Who sets me free. 3 He is my God, my rock, where I go to be safe. He is my covering and the horn that saves me, my strong place where I go to be safe. You save me from being hurt. 4 I call upon the Lord, Who should be praised. I am saved from those who hate me.” II Samuel 22:2-4 NLV

In these verses we see David placing his complete trust in the Lord. You are my Rock, he says. That phrase reminds me of where we live. We are surrounded by rocky mountains. Climbing to the top you could see your enemies coming for miles. You would be protected. A secure place, a place you could trust.

This kind of unwavering trust is available to everyone.

“The poor can run to you because you are a fortress in times of trouble. 10 Everyone who honors your name can trust you, because you are faithful to all who depend on you.” Psalm 9:9-10 CEV

I think it would be a good idea to keep a “trust” journal. You know a place where we write down the times we know God has been there to be our fortress, our rock, our high tower. Then when worry comes or stress tries to overwhelm we can look back and remember that God is FAITHFUL and can be trusted.

“Some people trust the power of chariots or horses, but we trust you, Lord God. 8 Others will stumble and fall, but we will be strong
and stand firm.” Psalm 20:7-8 CEV

I find it’s also good to look at people in the Bible who encountered tremendously difficult situations and saw God deliver them. People like Noah, Daniel, Joseph, Elijah and Elisha, Peter, and Paul.

The Bible tells us that God is no respecter of persons, He doesn’t play favorites so if He delivered these people we can trust Him to do the same for us.

When we trust we will be in a place of peace.

“You will keep the man in perfect peace whose mind is kept on You, because he trusts in You. 4 Trust in the Lord forever. For the Lord God is a Rock that lasts forever. ” Isaiah 26:3-4 NLV

I’m looking out my patio window now. The sun is coming up and I see one of those rocky mountains. It is a daily reminder that God is a Rock. He is my Rock.

Today I am determined to take another step forward. I will trust Him!

“He who lives in the safe place of the Most High will be in the shadow of the All-powerful. 2 I will say to the Lord, “You are my safe and strong place, my God, in Whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1-2 NLV

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God Knows Your Name & Your Need

I have a list with the names of family, friends and acquaintances in my prayer journal.

I began talking to the Lord about the different names on that list this morning. Some of you I know have personal needs and so I was praying about those. But then I came to some of your names and I didn’t know what particular need there is in your life.

As I was hesitating in what to pray I felt the Lord say “It’s ok. You know their names, I know their needs.”  I love that about God. He knows all about us.

“When you pray, do not say the same thing over and over again making long prayers like the people who do not know God. They think they are heard because their prayers are long. 8 Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. ” Matthew 6:7-8 NLV

Look at the Apostle Paul. In the letters that he wrote to the different churches he always let them know that he was praying for them.

“ I thank God every time I remember you.” Philippians 1:3

“ In our prayers we always thank God for you. He is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Colossians 1:3

As I said, sometimes we know how to pray for a specific need and other times we just need to let the Holy Spirit direct our prayers because we lack the understanding for what is needed.

“Also, the Spirit helps us. We are very weak, but the Spirit helps us with our weakness. We don’t know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit himself speaks to God for us. He begs God for us, speaking to him with feelings too deep for words. 27 God already knows our deepest thoughts. And he understands what the Spirit is saying, because the Spirit speaks for his people in the way that agrees with what God wants.” Romans 8:26-28 ERV

A couple weeks back I had sent a friend a text early in the morning to tell her that I was praying for her. She responded back and gave me some specific needs that were immediate.

We were in the truck and on our way to an area where there was no cell service. Her text was the last that came in for several hours. I was disappointed that I didn’t get a chance to tell her that I was now praying specifically for those needs.

The Lord reminded me that although I couldn’t communicate with her that I could certainly pray on her behalf and that He wasn’t limited by a weak cell signal. He was moving to meet her needs.

God is so good!

What a privilege it is to pray for others. What a joy it is to know that our God isn’t deaf but He hears and answers our prayers.

” I write this letter to you who believe in the Son of God. I write so that you will know that you have eternal life now. 14 We can come to God with no doubts. This means that when we ask God for things (and those things agree with what God wants for us), God cares about what we say. 15 He listens to us every time we ask him. So we know that he gives us whatever we ask from him.” I John 5:13-15 ERV

We have God’s word so we know what He wants for us and we can pray for those things to come about in our lives and the lives of our friends and family. We can even join in prayer for those we don’t know personally.  Again, all we may know is a name but God knows their need.

Jesus is our example for life. He took every spare moment to pray. The night he was arrested and taken to be crucified He was in the garden praying. He was praying for himself and his followers and he was praying for us too.

“I pray not only for these followers but also for those who will believe in me because of their teaching.” John 17:20 ERV

We are those who have believed because of the teaching of His disciples. Jesus prayed for us  and now that He is in heaven He continues to intercede on our behalf.

Prayer is conversation with the Father. When someone we know or love comes to mind let’s talk to the Father about them.

Remember, we know their name and He knows their need.

 

 

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Big Love

Woke up this morning with the old song, “Oh, how I love Jesus. Oh, how I love Jesus. Oh, how I love Jesus because He first loved me” running through my mind.

I accepted Christ as my Saviour when I was very young. I remember realizing my need for forgiveness, walking the aisle Sunday night at church and the sweet Christian lady who talked with me to make sure I understood salvation and then prayed with me. At that tender young age, I really didn’t have much sin to be forgiven but I did know that Christ had died for me and had forgiven me.

Now that I’m older, I’m amazed by God’s goodness, mercy and grace. His unconditional love paid the price of sin for everyone through Jesus’ sacrifice. Every sin ever committed from the beginning of time until this earth passes away were forgiven in that one act of sacrifice! God had not only forgiven the sins I had committed up to the day I asked Jesus to be my Saviour but He has forgiven every one of them since. Even if I had become some horrible, terrible sinner His forgiveness would have still been there for me.

“My children, I am writing this so that you won’t sin. But if you do sin, Jesus Christ always does the right thing, and he will speak to the Father for us. 2 Christ is the sacrifice that takes away our sins and the sins of all the world’s people.” I John 2:1-2

And whether my sins were great or small, it doesn’t matter – I still needed a Saviour. The Apostle James writes that “For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” James 2:10

It’s a like a picture window; if you throw a rock through it, it’s broken; if you put a bee bee through it, it’s still broken. The size of the hole doesn’t matter, the glass is broken. So whether you’re Hitler or a small girl in Yuma, Az, sin is sin and it requires a Saviour. The same sacrifice was necessary for both of us.

God’s love is unconditional. It doesn’t matter if we are the most base sinner who ever lived or the most self-righteous. His love is the same. Each day I realize where I could have been without Jesus and I am so grateful and thankful that I am not without Him and that He chose me, He adopted me and made me a new creation.

I will close this glorious Sunday morning with an example from Jesus himself.

“A Pharisee invited Jesus to have dinner with him. So Jesus went to the Pharisee’s home and got ready to eat. 37 When a sinful woman in that town found out that Jesus was there, she bought an expensive bottle of perfume. 38 Then she came and stood behind Jesus. She cried and started washing his feet with her tears and drying them with her hair. The woman kissed his feet and poured the perfume on them.

39 The Pharisee who had invited Jesus saw this and said to himself, “If this man really were a prophet, he would know what kind of woman is touching him! He would know that she is a sinner.”

40 Jesus said to the Pharisee, “Simon, I have something to say to you.”

“Teacher, what is it?” Simon replied.

41 Jesus told him, “Two people were in debt to a moneylender. One of them owed him five hundred silver coins, and the other owed him fifty. 42 Since neither of them could pay him back, the moneylender said that they didn’t have to pay him anything. Which one of them will like him more?”

43 Simon answered, “I suppose it would be the one who had owed more and didn’t have to pay it back.”

“You are right,” Jesus said.

44 He turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Have you noticed this woman? When I came into your home, you didn’t give me any water so I could wash my feet. But she has washed my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. 45 You didn’t greet me with a kiss, but from the time I came in, she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You didn’t even pour olive oil on my head, but she has poured expensive perfume on my feet. 47 So I tell you that all her sins are forgiven, and that is why she has shown great love. But anyone who has been forgiven for only a little will show only a little love.”

48 Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.”

49 Some other guests started saying to one another, “Who is this who dares to forgive sins?”

50 But Jesus told the woman, “Because of your faith, you are now saved.May God give you peace!” Luke 7:36-50

Oh how I love Jesus!

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Are You Confused?

I had a situation recently where I needed to log-in to a particular app. Entered the password I thought was right but…

I know you’ve been there. Or you log-in and then are asked the security questions. After several attempts of trying to remember if you capitalized the answer or are spelling it right you are locked out temporarily. Are you kidding me, what did I do wrong? I’m so confused.

There are many things that bring thoughts of confusion our way. Jobs – Relationships – Politics – Finances – Education – Technology! What to do? Throw up your hands and walk away? Guess?

I’m so glad that our access to the heavenly Father isn’t blocked by some unknown password or security questions that we can’t remember. The password is simple, Jesus! The security question answer is less complicated than most imagine, Help!

“Don’t worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks for what you have. And because you belong to Christ Jesus, God’s peace will stand guard over all your thoughts and feelings. His peace can do this far better than our human minds.” Philippians 4:6-7 ERV

Confusion is not from the Lord. Absolutely not! He promises us peace. His peace to guard our thoughts and are feelings.

He has always done everything in an orderly and well planned fashion. He created light and the dry land before He created the animals and plants. He put the grasses on earth before He created the cows, deer and elk.

He foretold the birth of Jesus hundreds and thousands of years before the event and when it came time for Jesus’ earthly entry everything was in place. The wise men followed what Daniel had written hundreds of years before.

The crucifixion was orchestrated down to the words that were spoken on the cross. Every detail had been foretold and every detail came to pass without deviation. God does things orderly. Even now, heaven is being prepared for us. Every desire and detail that will make heaven, heaven, is being fashioned as we live and breathe.

So when we look at a situation or circumstance and try to plan or gain understanding and are minds are spinning, it’s time to call on the Lord for order and wisdom.

“If any of you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be given to you. God is generous and won’t correct you for asking. 6 But when you ask for something, you must have faith and not doubt. Anyone who doubts is like an ocean wave tossed around in a storm. 7-8 If you are that kind of person, you can’t make up your mind, and you surely can’t be trusted. So don’t expect the Lord to give you anything at all.” James 1:5-8 CEV

Once we’ve asked for wisdom we need to wait for it. Expect God to show up with a game plan. Don’t become impatient or we will be tossed back and forth in our storm of indecision and misinformation. We can trust God to provide when we ask.

The Apostle Paul says that we battle in our minds but the way we emerge victorious is to bring every thought “captive”. Rein it in, bring it under control but not a control of our own making, bring it under the control that comes from knowledge in Christ.

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;” II Corinthians 10:3-5

So when confusion comes and it does, it’s our duty to cast it down, take it captive and renew our minds to God’s way of thinking.

Ask for wisdom and then be still and listen for God’s voice on the matter. You have unlimited access to the throne room.

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What Do You Desire Most?

What’s the one thing you desire most? Think about that one.

Some would say a forever home. To others it may be restored health. Still others would like to go on a long leisurely vacation, all expenses paid. Finding the perfect mate. The job at the top of the corporate ladder. I told you a few days back that I would like a Cinderella evening and I’d also like to catch a blue marlin. Wish list items.

But what do you desire the most? What is the one thing you really, really want?

I would have to say that my one thing, is to honor and serve the Lord. I’m not saying this to be pious or religious. It is my true heart’s desire. I have learned through the years that when I am serving the Lord all the other things, the wants and the wishes, pale in comparison.

However, many times my days are so wrapped up in my own pursuits that the Lord is put somewhere further down the line. Just bein honest folks – if we aren’t honest with ourselves we can’t and won’t serve the Lord the way we know we should.

“LORD, teach me your laws, and I will always follow them. 34 Help me understand your teachings, and I will follow them. Obeying them will be my greatest desire. 35 Help me follow your commands, because that makes me happy. 36 Give me the desire to follow your rules, not the desire to get rich. 37 Don’t let me look at worthless things. Help me live your way. 38 Do what you promised me, your servant, so that people will respect you. 39 Take away the shame I fear. Your laws are good. 40 See how much I want to obey your instructions! Be good to me, and let me live.” Psalm 119:33-40 ERV

King David had a “one thing” mentality. The Bible says that David was a man after God’s heart. He wanted to serve God will all his natural ability but that wasn’t enough, he wanted more. He knew he needed God’s help if he was truly going to follow God’s word.

David didn’t just sit by each day and have harps playing in the background, eating grapes and contemplating the greatest and vastness of God. His life was full – he had a kingdom to run, he had wives and children, there were enemies to defeat and battles to be won. Yet his priority was God’s word – he wasn’t seeking wealth or power – but those things came to him. He was “seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things were added to him.”

David was living the very life that Jesus taught about. He was living example hundreds of years before Jesus delivered the message.

I’ve heard people say, “I don’t really study the Old Testament, there isn’t much in there for me.” Well, that’s all that David had! In fact, he had the first five books of the Bible and then the book of Job; the rest of it was being written as he lived it and after his death. He took God’s command to Joshua seriously – meditate in the book of the Law day and night and then you shall be prosperous and have good success.

Jesus said “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” John 6:38

Have you ever sat and looked at a single day in the life of Jesus? Talk about a full schedule? From the time He got up until late at night he was busy. His daily life was filled with walking, sailing, healing, teaching, facing his critics and then raising the dead. When he took time to pray and be alone, people would seek him out and interrupt his prayer time. He had learned the Scriptures from his youth and was living them out each and every day.

I’m not saying that all we do is study God’s word all day long. What’s important is that we live what we read. Reading one verse and living it all day will have more of an impact on our lives and the lives of others than reading chapters and walking away and not having it change us.

“Don’t let me look at worthless things. Help me live your way.” vs 37

There was a time that David looked at worthless things and it got him into a lot of trouble. He was up on his roof top and looking down he saw Bathsheba – he committed adultery and murdered her husband all because he was looking at the wrong things. He knew firsthand how destructive it can be to take your eyes off the Lord. It begs the question “what worthless things am I looking at”?

Lord, my heart’s prayer is this – don’t let me look at worthless things but let me focus on You.

Like David, our goal should be to live in a way that people know we are depending on the Lord, trusting Him and making God’s way known to the people around him. He was God-minded and his “one desire” was to know God more.

Let me make David’s words my own – one thing have I desired. I desire you, Lord.

Don’t just read the Word today – live it!

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Like Pieces of A Puzzle

I am one of those people who love to do jigsaw puzzles.

You start out with a thousand pieces and you have an image on a box, let the fun begin. I do think it’s fun. I remember when I was little  my mom and dad would have friends over to visit for pie and coffee and there would always be a card table set up with a puzzle.

They would talk and put the puzzle together. It was a time of building relationship. As I became older and had a family of my own I enjoyed, and still do, putting together puzzles with family and friends. My daughters and I usually start a puzzle when they arrive for the weekend and hopefully finish it before they leave. It’s a great time to talk and share our lives.

I have a friend that shares my love of puzzles and she and I look forward to the time we spend around the table hunting for pieces, working together, and catching up.

The thing you have to remember about a jigsaw puzzle is the image was created first. Then, originally, a jigsaw was used to cut pieces in such a way that they would fit together and recreate the Master Design.

Some people I know think of the Bible as a puzzle. There are thousands of pieces and they think they know what it should look like but often times are surprised by the image that they find. Some think they will find an angry God while others believe they will see a God who is absent and unresponsive. However, quite the opposite is true!

When the pieces come together we find a loving God who is intimately involved in the smallest of details. He works everything out so that the final picture reveals His love and grace.

This morning I was reading in the book of Job. It’s not a book I spend a lot of time in but this morning I was caught up in the intricate way that the Lord described creation. The Lord asks Job:

“How did I lay the foundation for the earth? Were you there?5 Doubtless you know who decided its length and width.6 What supports the foundation? Who placed the cornerstone, 7 while morning stars sang, and angels rejoiced?

8 When the ocean was born,  I set its boundaries9 and wrapped it in blankets of thickest fog. 10 Then I built a wall around it, locked the gates, 11 and said, “Your powerful waves stop here! They can go no farther.” 12 Did you ever tell the sun to rise? And did it obey?… 19 Where is the home of light, and where does darkness live? 20 Can you lead them home?…24 From where does lightning leap, or the east wind blow? 25 Who carves out a path for thunderstorms? 31 Can you arrange stars in groups such as Orion and the Pleiades? 32 Do you control the stars or set in place the Big Dipper and the Little Dipper? 33 Do you know the laws that govern the heavens, and can you make them rule the earth?” Job 38 CEV

You really need to read through Job 38 and 39. The Lord’s planning and thoughtfulness in the act of creation is absolutely amazing! And then my reading took me to Proverbs 3. Watch how the puzzle pieces go together.

“God blesses everyone who has wisdom and common sense. 14 Wisdom is worth more than silver; it makes you much richer than gold. 15 Wisdom is more valuable than precious jewels; nothing you want compares with her…19 By his wisdom and knowledge the Lord created heaven and earth. 20 By his understanding he let the ocean break loose and clouds release the rain. 21 My child, use common sense and sound judgment! Always keep them in mind. 22 They will help you to live a long and beautiful life. 23 You will walk safely and never stumble; 24 you will rest without a worry and sleep soundly. 25 So don’t be afraid of sudden disasters or storms that strike those who are evil. 26 You can be sure that the Lord will protect you from harm.” Proverbs 3:13-24 CEV

God used his wisdom in creation. He set boundaries for the oceans and the seas. He set rules for rain and snow. He set the course of the stars. And now He is blessing us with wisdom so that we can  have a long and beautiful life.

Are you beginning to see the picture? God gave us everything that we need for living on this planet at creation. He thought of every detail and He is blessing us with wisdom which is far more valuable than gold.

Now before I finish up this morning I want you to know that I am far from having all the pieces put together in the puzzle of God’s word but I do know that the more I read it, the more I look at it and study the shape of the pieces I am finding how they all fit together.

The last piece that I want to add to the puzzle this morning comes from Luke. This is a piece of protection that fits nicely with the verses in Proverbs.

“ Five sparrows are sold for just two pennies, but God doesn’t forget a one of them. 7 Even the hairs on your head are counted. So don’t be afraid! You are worth much more than many sparrows.” Luke 12:6-7 

Do you see it? God designed the whole course of creation. It was His wisdom and knowledge that made it all work together. He didn’t create the animals before He made land, they would have drown. He didn’t create plants before light; they would have froze. He created every detail that gives the sparrows their flight. He cares for them no matter how insignificant they seem but He cares for us so much more. It all fits!

From creation until the end of the world God is showing His love and protection for us. Now that’s the big picture.

Our God is an Awesome God!

 

 

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